Taking a deep breath, she pulled her tight, short dress down and straightened herself. The key in her hand was shiny and new, a symbol of a new relationship and the leaving of the past behind. She could do this. She could trust in this. It’s what she always wanted and what she deserved. This new love affair was fragile and bounding. It was fast mending all the pain that a summer of tears couldn’t heal. It took more courage than she thought she had to learn to trust again, to take a chance on another relationship. Opening the door, she walked onward into her own future.

Maria looked around the room. It was darkened, but the candles that covered every surface were lit. They gave the room a soften glow making the atmosphere romantic and warm at the same time. Putting down her shoulder bag and wrap. She walked over to the beautiful display at the table. He went to so much trouble. The table was set with nice flatware and silver, the napkins were fine linen, a centerpiece of beautiful flowers floating in perfumed water, and long tapered candles lit. A bottle was in a bucket chilling, ready to be poured. At the seat that she presumed was hers sat a small package, beautifully wrapped and waiting.

“Open it.” She looked over at his husky, low voice. Picking up the package with a slight tremor in her hand she held it to her heart for a second. He looked so beautiful all dressed in casual black clothes. He stood in the doorway silently watching her. Looking away from him and down at the present Maria opened it. Inside was a jeweler’s box. Almost afraid to open it, she startled when his hands covered her and she looked into his eyes. They were soft and gentle, understanding much. This was hard for both of them. Taking courage from him, she opened it. The necklace was breath taking with a tear shaped diamond hanging from the golden chain. Maria touched the beautiful strands of gold that looked so fragile, almost filigree. It wasn’t the necklace that touched her as much as the gesture, the care and time it must have taken him to chose it.

“Don’t be afraid.” He took the necklace and standing behind her placed it around her neck with the diamond lying warm against her skin between her breasts. “This is a promise of all the tears I’ll never make you shed. This is a symbol of how I want to rest myself against your warm skin. The gold strand is a symbol of my connection to you that looks delicate, but is strong and lasting.”

Turning in his arms, Maria looked into the sincerity of his glaze. This was love. This was how it was expressed when given without pain and reluctance. Feeling the beaten edges of her heart giving up even more of the past pain, Maria kissed her lover. He was everything she ever thought she wanted, but was sure she would never find. Holding him close, keeping him a secret, she protected him from the outside world. For that space in time they were complete, two souls joining in a meeting of hearts. She never expected to find this at such a young age, and at times she wondered if it was just a thing of youth, but her heart and instinct told her that it was more; it was eternal.

“Dance with me, Maria.” He said in a husky low voice in her ear.

***

“Has anyone seen Maria tonight?” Liz asked the group in general. Maria had of late been obviously missing from the usual get together.

“Actually Liz, I think she said something about having a date. That’s why we aren’t having practice and I’m free to sit here guzzling my third alien blast.” Alex smiled at Isabel’s look of disgust at his gluttony. After having Isabel walk away from him last summer, and slowly getting back together after many starts and stops, Alex wasn’t as willing to make concessions and he actually made Isabel do most of the work.

The friends at the table looked at each other. Maria was on a date? This was a new event. Since the summer she seemed to be drawn inward, quiet and reserved ignoring all specimens of the male species, save Alex and Max. The breakup with Michael had been hard for her. His refusing to talk to her or even let her stay with him as he looked for his destiny effectively cut her out of his life. They waited and waited for the couple to start talking again, but all they did was snipe at each other in sarcasm or ignore each other’s existence.

“Who’s she dating, Alex?” Max asked as he quickly shared a look with Isabel. This was bad news, real bad news.

“I’m not sure. Someone that saw us perform? She really has that stage presence going, and with the new long hair, tight short skirts, and sensual dancing, our popularity has taken leaps and bounds. We’ve got a gig next weekend, so I’m surprised that she doesn’t want to rehearse.”

“God, I can’t believe that she’s seeing someone else. Alex, is it serious?” Isabel chewed on her bottom lip. She like Max knew that Michael wasn’t doing well since breaking it off with Maria, and they both hoped the two would mend their relationship, or at least find a way to become friends again. Surprisingly to all of them was discovering how much more the couple’s relationship had been, how Maria was like an anchor to Michael keeping him focused, and without her, Michael was all over the place.

“I think that it’s the most serious I’ve ever seen her, except for Michael of course. She has seen him about eight times over the past two weeks. I suspected this person was trying to get her to date him for the last few months by her change of attitude. I think about two weeks ago she finally said yes. Her chipper attitude is starting to ruin the love angst of our songs. A pissed off, love starved Maria has this deepness almost sadness to her voice that really touches the audience.” Alex reached over and helped himself to some of Isabel’s fries.

“Great Alex. That’s so supportive. Let’s keep Maria miserable so your music remains popular.” Liz looks over at Isabel and rolls her eyes.

“I didn’t mean it that way. I just mean that she has hit a real edge here. And,” He puts up his hand to keep Liz and Isabel from talking over him. “I believe that I’ll lose it if she starts drawing rainbows, puppies, and smiley faces everywhere. I mean her lyrics about ‘cutting out his heart and leaving him bleeding’ was shear inspiration.” Maria’s lyrics would’ve slain and murdered Michael Guerin months ago, but they were only songs.

Max watched the girls outrage with his own smile. Alex could make anyone feel like strangling him with one real good put on. His last list of the silly mating rituals of women pushed Tess into a fury. It took both Isabel and Liz to hold her back. Looking at his friends he felt the missed presence of Michael. Here he was stuck at a table with Alex and three girls. The missing other couple was an obvious void.

“Does anyone know where Michael is tonight? Isabel?” Max was beginning to notice the absence of Michael almost as much as Maria.

“Hey, I put up with him this past summer. That’s over. I’m not responsible for being his keeper, so why does everyone expect me to know where he’s at all the time?” Isabel was irritated. Both, she and Michael realized almost immediately that following a pre-destined engagement was out of the question, but both pulled away from Maria and Alex over the summer for different reasons. Isabel was just confused about who she was, but Michael, he felt the murder of Pierce deeply and the destiny of being a soldier made him sure that he would murder again.

“Come on, Iz. Where is he?” Max felt bad. Michael was out there and if Isabel wasn’t playing her usual mother hen then that meant he was alone.

“Oh, I don’t know. Truthfully. He’s probably out in the desert looking for a landsite or hidden spaceship. He has gone crazy with star charts lately doing all these weird calculations. I’m thinking the guy needs to get back to reality.”

“Do you think he knows that Maria has been dating someone else?” Max asked thinking that it might be a reasonable explanation as to why Michael was making himself scarce. Maybe he didn’t want to have to see Maria happy in a new relationship.

“I don’t think it’s really any of his business what Maria does. He made all the choices. I watched him all summer ignore her. It was painful to watch. I can only imagine how it felt from Maria’s end.” Isabel was still upset with how Michael cruelly treated Maria by just refusing to even answer her calls or talk to her. She knew he missed her, but Michael Guerin stuck on an idea was almost impossible to reform or convince otherwise.

“It was painful,” Alex acknowledged. “I lived through it with her myself. At times I thought she was just going to give up on everything.”

“No! Not suicidal?” Isabel chewed on her lip in concern. She didn’t want to admit it, but she had the same concern about Michael while watching over him this last summer. The depression over Pierce was so great and then feeling he needed to cut ties with Maria to protect her from the big scary him took away everything Michael had left.

“I would’ve thought her one of the strongest people I knew. But she seemed so resigned to the fact that she’s the reason people leave, that there was something about her that invited abandonment. Her greatest fears were playing her into a depression. I was afraid. The band was on a suicide watch for over a month. Then she snapped out of it.” Okay so maybe she wasn’t really suicidal, but Alex had to admit that seeing Maria DeLuca without her usual exuberance and engaging personality was hard to take, and almost even more alarming was when he realized that she was depressed. Maria and depression just didn’t really go together.

“What happened?” Liz tried to ask the question calmly, but her own guilt was rising to the top. She, too, like other people in Maria’s life took off to Florida to lick her own wounds without giving a moment’s thought to how Maria would cope all alone living in it everyday, watching Michael, and knowing he didn’t want her.

“She saw Michael. He ignored her. She ignored him, and the rest is history. It has been open warfare since. I’m thinking that this new guy, whomever he is, is getting a whole new, stronger Maria then the one we’ve seen over the past few months.” Alex didn’t bother to mention that this was his own wishful thinking.

“God, I wonder what Michael will do when he finds out?” Isabel actually started chewing on her nails.

“Screw Michael. You snooze; you lose. Maria was the best thing that ever happened to him and he walked away without a look back, even to see if she was okay.” Alex watched Isabel opening her mouth to defend Michael so he quickly finished what he wanted to say. “I understand why he felt the need to keep her away from him, but for someone who felt he was in love with her, he should’ve at least wanted to make sure she was okay. So if her moving on causes him even a moment of pain, it won’t be enough. She deserves some retribution.”

“Look, I know that it was hard. But you’re missing the point,” Isabel said. “It’s a really valid point, that Michael and Maria love each other, and they were both suffering from being apart these past months. They belong together. I hate to admit it, but the sparks they throw around is nothing if not violent and intense, and even though they’re on the out right now, you can still feel it.”

“Well, it looks like Michael left it too late, because she has started seeing someone who makes her feel special, loved. I don’t blame her for giving up. Maria has had much insecurity, but being a doormat isn’t one of them. She may stay for a long time because she trusts and sees deep inside, believes, but after so much abuse, even Maria has the right to walk away in self-protection.” Alex couldn’t stop championing Maria. It was just this summer had been too hard to watch.

“He wants her back.” Isabel was sure of it. A few times of unguarded regard she saw Michael watching Maria with a look in his eyes. “It’s just that never has God made prouder stuff then these two. They are equally stubborn and their pride won’t let them yield. It would be a sin to let the only truly meaningful love of their lives be lost due to silly pride and miscommunication.”

“Maybe they need some help?” They all turned to look at Tess.

“Explain.” Max along with Liz had sat back quiet with Tess as Isabel and Alex discussed the sad state of affairs between the other couple, but it sounded as if Tess had a plan.

“Maybe they need reassurance before either are willing to risk their hearts again. They need a sort of third party to step in and give them a clear picture.” Tess kept her voice small, almost too soft to be heard. It was hard for her to exert herself in the group since she still felt like an outsider.

“Third party? You mean us?” Alex looked at Isabel with a questioning look. Tess wasn’t being all that clear.

“Actually I think Tess is right.” Max finally quipped in his opinion.

“Max, what are you saying?” Liz still didn’t get it. Taking Liz’s hand and moving closer into the table, the group of friends pulled together in a conspiracy mode following Max’s lead.

“The love gods.”

“Okay, love gods would mean, what?” Isabel looked at Max in confusion.

“Cupid, you know, the naked guy with the arrow. He shoots his arrows into young lovers to make them see their love for one another. He’s the original matchmaker.”

Alex leaned in even closer, “Okay now we’re talking. Naked little guys, arrows, hitting its mark in our friends, we’re onto something now.” Alex gives Max one of his patented you’re crazy looks.

“Shut up, Alex. It’s simply. We become the love god, Cupid, except we don’t use arrows and we keep our clothes on.” Max gestured them all even closer so they could begin the conspiracy. “Let me tell you my thoughts.” Everyone moved even closer to hear the glorious plan, operation reunite Michael and Maria. It was going to be so sneaky, so sly that neither of them was going to be aware what was happening until it became too late.

***

Maria woke suddenly. She couldn’t understand what started her from a well-deserved rest, but it was suddenly like something had walked over her grave, a sense of trouble on the horizon. The bedding rustled behind her and his arm came around her waist drawing her back against him with his hand palming her breast as he kissed the side of her neck.

“What’s wrong, Maria? I thought your mom was gonna be gone until Sunday?” He tightened his hold on her. He didn’t want to give her up just yet.

“She is.” Maria closed and eyes and moan softly at the sensation he was creating by touching and kissing her. “I wasn’t leaving. I’m not sure what it is. I just suddenly woke up.”

“You have to work the early shift tomorrow. Let’s get some rest.” He kissed the back of her neck rubbing his chest against her. He loved the feel of her skin. The texture was so different, softer, more delicate, and the silkiness was a total turn on. He loved seeing his marks on her skin, knowing that he was the first to venture this far. She belonged to him now and he would never give her up.

“Mm, that feels so good.” Maria smiled as she let herself relax even more against him.

Running his hands along her body, he sucked deeply on her skin and pulled her even tighter into the cradle of his groin. He loved how husky her voice became when he touched her like this. She turned in his arms a little so she could nuzzle into his neck as her body moved against him. He loved feeling her along the length of his body.

“Maria?”

“Hmm?”

“Are you sorry that we started this? That we went this far?” He still worried that they were moving too fast. Maria looked up at the uncertainty in his voice.

“You mean having sex?” Maria stopped kissing his neck to really look at him.

“This isn’t just sex,” he said moving his hand down over her back soothing her. “But basically, yes. Are you worried about what we’re doing?”

“No.” Maria turned in his arms fully to look at him. His eyes were clear and full of concern. “I know that the age thing is a big worry, but I don’t regret the choice. I’ve wanted to be with you like this. It doesn’t just feel good. It feels right.” He put his head against her body and rubbed his face into her.

“I just didn’t want to think that with all that you went through this summer that you felt you had to make this type of commitment to me. I would’ve been frustrated to no end, but I would’ve survived. We could’ve stayed at the heavy panting stage for a while if you wanted. We can go back there if this is too much too fast.”

Maria looped her leg high around his waist to pull him in tightly. Reaching up, she wrapped her arm around his neck to draw his mouth to hers. Sucking his tongue in deeply she tasted him inside her. His large hands were holding her firm and strong. Breaking the kiss and breathing hard, she stroked his face gently loving the caring, yet wild look in his soft golden eyes.

“I know this going fast and escalating our physical side of the relationship seems like a knee-jerk reaction to all the stuff I went through before. But it isn’t. I’m not using a physical relationship to bind you to me. That’s not what this is about.” She could feel him pull in her arms, startled and suddenly still.

“Whoa, hold on there. I didn’t think that for a moment. I just didn’t want to think that I’m pressuring you into a physical relationship that you aren’t ready for.” He didn’t want her to think that he was feeling trapped by her and their intimacy. “Maria, this is real to me, very real. I plan to love you the rest of my life and I need to make sure you’re with me a hundred percent. Wherever we go, we’re going together. I can wait a lifetime for you if I’ve got to.”

“Well, you don’t. I’m with you,” She kissed him again loving the smell of him on her body, the feel of his hands holding and stroking her. “Only you, forever.”

“Be sure, because I’ll never let you go no matter what.” He couldn’t. He just knew it. Letting her walk away was no longer an option. There was a possessive need in him to bind her to him, to keep her exclusively and at his side at all times, and the closer they became, the strong the need. Suddenly her hands wandered over his body taking him in hand as her mouth bit him gently. It was obvious that neither of them were going to rest much more that night.

“Ditto.”

***

“Okay, Michael should be here soon. I called and woke him up this morning. Liz, what’s with Maria?” Max looked over at a fast moving Maria, her movement almost jerky and tired.

“She overslept this morning so she’s sort of in a rush. She only was scheduled for a half shift this morning so she’ll be finished in about thirty minutes.”

“Okay, everyone get your stories straight. We meet at the quarry after lunch, split up, and send everyone on the way prescribed. Alex, you’ve got all the maps we need?” Max started moving down his mental checklist.

”Done. I even took care of Maria’s car. It’s good for about twenty miles before it will die.”

Max nodded at Alex and moved on. “Liz, you got the supply bags ready?”

“Ready. Inside are flashlight, water, food, one thermal blanket, and an uncharged cell phone.”

“What about Maria’s regular cell phone?” He asked looking up at her.

“Isabel snitched it from her bag yesterday. She probably is wondering where she lost it. I’ll put it in her locker later and tell her that I found it on the floor.”

“Shush, here comes Michael.” Everyone turned to watch a slight disheveled Michael walk through the door when Isabel noticed him. He looked tired and still sleepy, and not just a little put out. Looking over at the group he noticed how they were all watching him. Turning quickly he looked to see if anyone was behind him.

“What?” They all looked at him with innocent looks on their faces.

“Nothing. We’re just glad you’re finally here. You’ve been kind of missing lately.” Max smiled a large cheesy grin. He didn’t seem to notice Michael’s eyes narrowing in suspicion.

“Yeah, well I had things to do. So why am I here?” Max ignored the question for a moment.

Maria came up to the table and looked at everyone, ignoring Michael. “Anyone need anything, else?”

“No we’re fine, Maria. Can you join us as soon as you’re finished with your shift?” Max smiled the same grin at her causing her some discomfort too.

“Sure. I’ll be back later. Here’s your ticket.” Michael was looking through the menu.

Looking up at Maria, “Actually, I’ll take a …” Maria walked off without appearing to notice him.

“Man, that was cold. You know Michael; maybe you should find a way to make peace with Maria. This cold warfare is getting ugly.” Alex couldn’t help but be amused at how Maria ignored Michael.

“Hey, she started it this time. Not me. All I wanted to do was order some food. I’ll be right back.” They watched Michael walk over to the order window and talk to Jose who was working. A few minutes later he returned with some food, sitting down he started eating, ignoring the rest. When Maria finally came over to the join them she noticed him eating and just sat down opposite him and ignored him further.

“So what’s up?”

“Well now that everyone is here I think that we really need to take this somewhere more private. How about everyone meet at the quarry in ten minutes?” Max looked at everyone. Maria reluctantly agreed, as did Michael. As the group started to leave, they stopped to pay for their food. Michael started to walk out and head for the quarry when Maria grabbed him.

“You can’t just leave. You haven’t paid for your food.”

“So? I wasn’t served by anyone so I didn’t have a ticket.”

“That doesn’t matter. You still ate the food. That’s theft, not just any kind of theft, but theft from your own work place.”

“So turn me in.” With that Michael was out the door with Maria glowering at his back.

“Maria, don’t worry about it. I’ll take care of it later.”

“That’s not the point Liz.”

“It’s okay. Let’s just go, okay.” Everyone split up to meet at the quarry. The alteration between Michael and Maria was worrisome. They weren’t going to be that easy to convince. This might take some work to get them back together, but the promise of peace among their group was too good to pass up on.

“Okay Maxwell, let’s hear what’s going on. We’re standing around on a Saturday, when we could be doing other things. So either tell us or I’m leaving.” Maria stood with her back to him looking out of the quarry. She wanted to know what was going on too. Now that her shift was over she had plans and wanted to get this done so she could go collect the ingredients she needed to make the dinner she was cooking tonight.

Maria turned around to face the others. “I have to agree with Michael. I was running late this morning, need to go grocery shopping, and I’ve plans tonight. So could we cut to the chase and do whatever we need to do?”

“Maria, you have plans tonight?” Alex looked worried. Maria wasn’t going to want to go on a wild goose chase if she had places to go. “But, you just went out on a date last night.”

“So, I’m cooking dinner tonight. But not if we don’t get a move on and do whatever Max wants us to do.” Michael was actually staring at Maria intently. The news of her making dinner was obviously a new concept for him.

“Sorry Maria I didn’t know you had plans. This shouldn’t take more than an hour. We need everyone to split into pairs and go in opposite directions, kind of an equal distant triangle. We want to see if Isabel and Tess can piggyback their powers to not only dream walk into someone’s mind while awake, but to see if Tess can send an image along the link simultaneously in different directions.”

“Why in pairs? I mean, if we separate into individuals then we could vary the distances and check for how far she can reach someone.” Maria didn’t know if it was just she was tired or what, but in truth, Max’s experiment seemed… well, stupid.

“That’s a great idea Maria, except, we need pairs this first time since Tess’s visions can appear very real. This way there’s a safety person who can call in the information.” Maria sighed acknowledging the validity behind Max’s plan. Michael was staring off into Michael land. He has been that way since Maria talked about her plans that night.

“Okay, Isabel, Tess, and Alex, you go together to the first point marked on the map. Alex, pass out the maps to the different teams.” Max was once again in his element doing the checklist thing.

Alex handed Liz a map and bag, and Maria the same. Michael was still not paying much attention. “Here’s the map with each site clearly marked including the best way to get there. Also we put together a little survival packet for everyone just in case.”

“Whoa, what do you mean survival packet and just in case?” That pulled Michael back to the group hearing Maria’s concern over the need for a survival pack.

“Oh, it just some food and water since we’re going to be out in the desert. Also, there’s a flashlight and a cell phone and one thermal blanket.”

“Okay, Alex maybe I’m missing a clue here,” Maria glared at Michael’s back when he snorted. “It’s daylight, why do we need a flashlight and thermal blanket?”

“Standard emergency rations, and I also put in a first aid kit. Just bring back the pack Maria; we can use it again later. I just thought it was time that we take more precautions when we split up. I’m just trying to be thorough.”

“Always the boy scout, Whitman?” Michael asked in his snottiest tone.

“In your case Michael, feel free to leave the pack here.”

“Enough. Let’s get going so people with plans can get back in time to have a nice evening.” Max said turning to address Maria specifically, quickly stepping in before Maria got anymore suspicious and Michael and Alex got into an argument. “I really appreciate you helping Maria.”

“Sure. No problem.” Maria turned away and sighed. She was too tired to be doing this crap today.

“Okay, so once you get to where you’re suppose to just call in to Alex’s phone. The cell phones are in the bag.”

“Thank goodness for that. I can’t find my cell phone right now. Maybe I should call its number?” Maria said to Liz. She didn’t notice Liz looking uncomfortable and guilty.

“Well there’s one in the bag. I think Liz’s. Alex and them will use Isabel’s, and I have mine. So come on, let’s get this happening.” Max was determined to get the show on the road before either Michael or Maria started asking too many questions, and Maria was already getting interested in more details.

Maria started to walk back to the car with the others when suddenly she did a head count. “Wait. Whom am I going with, exactly?”

“Michael.” Max said deadpan. This wasn’t going to work.

“No. No way. Why do I always get stuck with Rebel without a Moral?” Maria took a hard stance staring Max down.

“Actually why do I always get the ditz palmed off on me? I don’t want to be stuck with her. She’s irrational.” Michael almost laughed at the look of indignation that came over Maria’s face as she quickly turned to look at him. She was good, real good at this fighting thing.

“Irrational?” Maria’s voice was rising in irritation. “You’re the most irrational person I ever met. I should…”

“Maria, Michael, calm down. This isn’t a big deal. It’s only going to take an hour. Even you two must be able to remain civil for one hour?” The rest discretely looked away and left Max to deal with the two.

“Maybe I could go with you Max, and Liz could go with space doggie.” Looking at Liz’s pleading eyes and Max’s hand tightening on Liz’s, Maria sighed. “Okay, so maybe that won’t work, but how about I stay with Isabel and Tess letting Alex go with Michael?”

“Sorry Maria, but I can’t dream walk Alex. I promised him that I never would unless it was an emergency. Our relationship depends on him being able to trust me and have some privacy. I’m sorry.”

“Then dream walk Michael.” Everyone started laughing and Michael’s scowl increased.

“I can’t. Never could. Michael is a hard case to crack.”

“Well, you’re not lying there.” Maria muttered ignoring Michael’s scowl at her and looking at the group and realized that she was trapped. Michael didn’t seem to be struggling as much. He surprisingly was willing to do this. “Damn, all right, but the first snotty remark and I abandon his worthless ass on the side of the road.”

“Wait. You’re not driving.”

“Yes, I am. And you’re forbidden to drive my car. The insurance guy has put limits on it due to endless towing and bullet holes. Only my mom and I are authorized to drive it.”

“Then we’ll take my bike.”

“No way, you’re a neurotic driver, and there’s no way I’m getting on the back of a motorbike. Those things are statically shown to be the major contributor of organs for transplantation in the nation. They call them organ grinders.”

“Maria, please. We just need to get this going so you can get back in time for your date. Please?” Maria looked at Liz and then gave in.

“Okay, for you Liz, but I protest.”

“Stop your yammering and let’s go. Don’t forget the map.” They watched the two walks over to the bike arguing the entire time. It was going to be a long day. They could still hear them.

“I’m not telling you what kind of food is in here. It’s not for you. You already ate. Illegal food I might add.”

“Would you shut up?” It was with collective sigh that they roared off on Michael’s bike with Maria’s one arm around Michael’s waist and her other still gesturing wildly. They watch Michael take a turn sharply forcing Maria to use her other arm to hold on. The last they saw or heard of them was Maria’s scream.

“This is never going to work, Max.” Alex said watching the two as they moved out of sight.

“Yes it will. See how much they want to be together?” The entire group broke down into laughter.

“What about the bike? I thought you said that you fixed Maria’s car to breakdown.” Isabel asked Alex.

“I fixed the bike.” They all looked at Max. “I removed most of the gas and stuck his needle on full.” They all smiled.

“Are you sure this it?” Michael pulled over and looked around.

”Here, you’re the map freak. You check it out. It looks okay to me.” Maria reached into the bag to grab the cell phone. Punching the on button she noticed that it didn’t light up. “Oh no, this phone is dead.”

“Then use yours.” Michael continued to read the map.

“I already mentioned that I misplaced my phone.”

“Great. Okay, we’ll wait here. If they don’t hear from us Isabel will dream walk and you can tell her the deal. Afterwards we’ll head home.”

“Okay. I wonder if they put sunscreen in here?” Maria began digging through the pack.

Two hours later they were still waiting. Michael used the thermal blanket to rig a temporary shelter for them to get out of the sun. Maria was starting to really worry about why their friends didn’t come find them or at least dream walk.

“Maybe we’re out of Isabel’s range?”

“This is closer than the distance she dream walked Max.” Michael turned around looking all around them scratching his brow. “Okay, well, this was a pleasant day, but you’re hot and starting to look a little red. Let’s go back, hunt them down, and strangled them.”

“Good, and if we get a nice cold drink before doing that, it should be very refreshing.” Maria jumped on the back of the bike after Michael took down the shelter. He got on and tried to start the bike. He tried again, and again.

“Okay, start it up and let’s go.” Michael tried again. Finally he opened his gas cap and looked inside.

“Hand me that flashlight will you?”

“What’s wrong?”

“Out of gas.” Michael looked around. This wasn’t right.

“What? You’re out of gas?” Maria’s voice rose with a slight sound of hysteria to it. “Why did you take off in the desert with no gas? Are you crazy? This is just great. Now what are we going to do?”

“Just calm down. This isn’t my fault, okay?”

“Then whose fault is it? It’s your bike.”

“Maria, I just gassed up yesterday, before I went home last night, and the gauge is still reading full. Look.”

Maria looked over and saw that the gauge did indeed read full. Reaching around Michael she flicked the gauge and watched in horror as the needle moved towards empty.

“Okay, so maybe it’s not your fault. Just the fault of your crappy bike.”

“My bike isn’t crappy. And Maria, I’m telling you. I just gassed up last night. I should’ve had a full tank. This isn’t right.”

“What’s not right?” Maria looked at him. “What do you mean?”

“This is a set up.”

“Set up? What are you talking about?” Oh god, not another conspiracy theory.

“They made us go together, the cell phone is dead, the gas is siphoned from the bike, they gave us water, food, and shelter, plus a flashlight. Is any of this starting to add up?”

“They wanted us stranded together?”

“Yes.” Michael actually smiled at her. She was getting over her hysteria and starting to think.

“Why?” That was a good question.

“I think they want us to get back together.”

“Why? No one really seemed all that happy about us being together before.” Maria never realized how much that fact bothered her. “What’s changed?”

“Us? I don’t know. Suddenly I’m not so confused anymore and they think you’re dating someone else.” Michael watched her closely knowing that she was upset about the lack of support they’d always met with from their friends. “I guess they decided to preserve what we once had.”

“That’s almost sweet, and I’d appreciate the effort if I wasn’t so angry. How can they just desert us out here in the heat.” Maria got off the bike and stalked around working on her anger at her friends.

“It’s not that hot. At least it’s November and not mid-summer.”

“Great. Now aren’t we just the chipper one?” Maria turned to look at him with not just a little curiosity. “Why aren’t you more pissed off?”

“I guess I’m kind of flattered that they care so much. Let’s set up the shelter again. Eventually they’ll come for us.”

“I’m not saying that I don’t appreciate the gesture, but Michael it’s not their place to interfere. We’re supposed to decide what happens between us and in our lives, not them. We can’t let this go unchecked or they’ll continue to do this to us.”

“So what do you want to do?” He stopped from unpacking the thermal blanket.

“You set up the shelter and I’ll think about it.” Maria looked around until a horrible thought occurred to her. “God, they left us only one thermal blanket. You don’t think they are going to leave us here all night do you?”

“I hope not. One blanket won’t be enough. The nights are getting colder out here now that the days are getting shorter.” They sat under the shelter for a while sharing the bottled water and some food. Alex had put Tabasco sauce in the bag. How thoughtful. Bastards.

Michael finally decided to ask her the question he wanted to ask for the past few hours. “So this dinner, I guess it was kind of special, huh?”

“Yeah. It was going to be a special surprise. Tonight was the last night I had alone, because mom’s back tomorrow. I really wanted to do this cooking thing. I guess that’s pretty much a bust now.”

“There’ll be other days, and other opportunities for making dinner.” Michael looked down at the ground and then at her. “I’m sorry you’re so disappointed, and being stuck here with me isn’t helping without knowing when they plan to rescue us. I know this doesn’t make up for the lost chance.”

Maria smiled and softly spoke, “You do much. It could be worse.” Michael smiled too. He couldn’t imagine how it could be worse, but as long as Maria thought so, he was happy to follow her lead. Actually thinking about it Maria was right. I could be worse. They could’ve stranded him with Liz. That would’ve sucked big.

***

“God, it’s so dark. I hope we find them soon. Maybe this wasn’t the best plan, Max.”

“It’ll be okay, Liz. We’ll find them at the place on the map. We’re almost there.”

The jeep came around a corner in time to see the bike with a shelter set up. Getting out of the jeep and walking to the shelter with not just a little trepidation they found Maria sleeping and Michael no where to be found.

“Maria?” Maria woke to find them standing over her. Trying not to lose her balance she stood up and stretched.

“Where the hell have you been? We’ve been stranded out here for hours. That idiot’s bike had a stuck needle on his gas gauge. It was empty. Why didn’t you dream walk Isabel? Why didn’t you come when we didn’t call in? By the way Liz, your stupid cell phone is dead.” They watch in silence at a raging Maria. She really did it well. Literally throwing Liz’s phone at her was a nice touch.

Maria stalked off and climbed in the jeep and stared off into space without saying another word. They took down the shelter and gathered the trash. Looking around for Michael, but he was still nowhere to be seen.

“Maria, where’s Michael?” Max asked starting to worry not only at Maria’s silence, but the missing Michael.

“How should I know? We got into a fight earlier and he stormed off, that way.” Maria gestured off into the dark. “I’ve been waiting and waiting for someone to come, for him to come back. The howling of the coyotes was really scary and I thought they would come and eat me. Finally I decided to go to sleep, that way if I was going to die, I wouldn’t have to watch it. So if you wouldn’t mind I want to go home. My day was a waste and my evening date is trashed. So unless you have plans to strip me, tie me to a rock, and beat me with leather straps, I’d prefer going home, now.” It was hard to miss the emphasis on the word, now.

“But we need to find Michael.” Max looked out into the dark. This wasn’t going the way he planned.

“He’s gone. I told you. He’s been gone for hours. If you want to keep looking for him then let Isabel drive me home in the jeep. I really can’t take anymore right now.”

Max looked at Maria and realized that she wasn’t going to withstand a full-scale search for Michael. “Okay, Isabel take Maria home and get Tess’s car. We’ll need to split up to look for him. I’ll use his bike and we can use the jeep and Tess’s car to go in different directions.”

“I’ll be back in half an hour Max.” Isabel took off with Tess and Maria leaving Max, Alex, and Liz to discuss how they should try searching for Michael.

Isabel kept looking into the rearview mirror at Maria. The girl was extremely quiet, almost subdued. She looked at Tess sharing a joint look of concern. This didn’t quite go the way they had planned. When they reached Maria’s house she got out of the jeep.

“Shouldn’t we go to the quarry to get my car?”

“Actually Alex drove it over here before we left today. We didn’t want to just leave it all alone at the quarry. Here are the keys.”

“Thanks.” Maria turned to walk towards her house.

“Maria.” She turned to look at the two other girls with concern on their face. “We’re really sorry for what happened.”

“Just tell Max, never again.” Maria started to walk off but hesitated and then looked back at them. “Umm, would the two of you mind walking me to my door? I’m still freaked out by the dark and I didn’t turn on any lights before I left home this morning.”

“Sure Maria.” They got out of the jeep and walked her up the path towards her front door.

“Thanks. Goodnight.”

Maria went inside the dark house turning on lights as she went. Looking out the window she watched Isabel and Tess drive away. Going through the house she went to the kitchen just in time to hear a gentle tap on the kitchen door. Michael was resting against the doorjamb waiting patiently.

“That was smooth. I was wondering how you were gonna get them away from the jeep so I could climb out of the back.”

“You’re just lucky that they didn’t see you climb in, and that it was dark. How long do you think they’ll search for you?” Maria shut the door behind him as he came in.

“Oh, probably a couple of hours and then Max will head back to my place and wait there for me. If I don’t show up in the morning he’ll get Valenti’s help.”

“This is kind of mean don’t you think?”

“No. They stranded us in the desert and ruined your special plans for the evening.” Michael started looking through the refrigerator.

“Their intentions were kind of honorable.”

Michael looked at her directly. “Maria, they stranded you alone in the desert with me.”

Maria thought about if for a second. “Okay, you’re right. They need to learn a good lesson.”

“So you have any food in the house?” Michael laughed looking around the kitchen.

“You want me to feed you? After leaving me alone in the desert?”

“You weren’t alone. I only hid when we saw the headlights. Plus, I can’t go home until morning or they’ll find me, so…”

“Great. I seem to be getting the bad end of this deal all around.”

“Well if it would make you any happier, I’ll let you cook for me. So what do you have?”

Maria looks him up and down and with a small smile, “Peanut butter and jelly.”

“Awe, come on, this isn’t right. You were planning to cook a huge meal tonight. What happen to all that.”

“Well unfortunately for you, I needed to go shopping, and since that didn’t happen, you’ll have to settle for peanut butter and jelly. Sorry.”

“God, I hope they search for hours. Hand me the bread, I’ll make the sandwiches. I’ve a feeling you’ll be stingy with the jelly.” Michael ducked as a loaf of bread came flying towards his head.

***

When Michael let himself into his apartment he wasn’t surprised to see Max and the others asleep in his apartment. Giving the door a good slam he watched them startle.

“Michael. My God, Michael where have you been? We looked for you most of the night.” Michael gave Isabel a quick hug and put her to the side.

“Really? Well I took off home. I was hoping to make it before nightfall so I could get Valenti to drive me back to pick up Maria. I figured the best way to travel was cross-country, but I became hopelessly lost. I was worried about leaving Maria. I finally found a major highway and walked home over the last two hours.”

“Why did you leave Maria alone?” Alex asked. That was sort of pissing him off.

“I wasn’t gonna, but we had this huge fight and she started on her ‘a real man’ or more specifically ‘ a real human man’ would get us help. I was so pissed off so I took off to get that help she wanted so badly. I wasn’t expecting to get lost. I’ve spent a lot of time in the desert lately so it was a surprise when I realized that I overshot Roswell by ten miles to the south. I didn’t take into consideration the change in the altitude of the sun with the fall skies versus the summer.”

“You should’ve stayed put. You know that we would’ve come for you.” Max said.

“No I didn’t. I would’ve sworn that my friends would’ve never left me stranded there in the first place. I know that I gassed up my bike the night before, so I can’t figure out how I ended up with an empty tank. But did she believe me? No. Of course not, she just went on and on about how it was entirely my fault. I couldn’t take anymore.” Michael turned his gaze on Max exclusively. “So, where were you Maxwell?”

“Well actually Michael, we were trying…”

“You know what, never mind.” Michael gestured at Max to be quiet. “I don’t want to know. I just want to get some sleep, some food, and forget about the whole ordeal. Now if you wouldn’t mind.” Michael opened the door for the group of them. He waited for Max to get even with him.

“Never again, Maxwell. Never again, is that understood?”

“Yes.”

“Good.” With that said Michael shut the door and headed for his kitchen and food. Those peanut butter and jelly sandwiches were hours ago.

The group was very quiet. Their first attempt at getting Michael and Maria some time together to talk was obviously a flop. Maybe they should give up? It seemed such a shame considering that the couple seemed perfect for each other despite their propensity to argue about everything under the sun.

“You know it was kind of strange.”

“What was strange?” Max looked over at Isabel.

“When I hugged Michael I swear I could smelt soap.”

“You need some real sleep Isabel.”

***

Maria woke up a few hours later feel much more refreshed. She could hear her mother in the kitchen. Getting up she went into the kitchen and watched Amy put away groceries. Her mother turned around and saw her.

“Maria! Oh! Honey, did you have to sneak up on me that way?”

“Hi, mom. How was the convention?”

“Oh it was great. I’ve some new products for the store. You want to see them?”

“Not right now. I was going to go take a bath, get dressed, and then we could look at the stuff this evening.”

“Oh, Maria I know I’ve been away for a while, but would you really, really mind me going out on a date with Jim tonight?”

“The Sheriff?” Maria seemed to be thinking it over before giving a nod okay to Amy.

“Okay, maybe I’ll invite a friend over for dinner.”

“That would be nice. I like to think that you won’t be alone. We’ll do a whole mother and daughter’s night out together later this week, okay?”

“Sure mom.”

Maria went back to her room and picked up her phone. Calling a number that she knew by heart she waited for an answer. He sounded groggy when he answered the phone making her suspicious that he was still in bed.

“Hi.” Maria didn’t realize her voice took a special tone when talking to him.

“Hi, back, beautiful. Missing you. Is your mother home yet?” He had sat up to answer the phone.

“Yes. I’m really sorry about the meal last night. I really had planned to do a really nice dinner.”

“It’s okay. What can you do when your friends kidnap you?” He knew how disappointed she was. “Listen, blonde, there’ll be other opportunities. I promise. My kitchen is your kitchen anytime you want it.”

“How about tonight?”

“Tonight? You want to cook for me tonight?” He leaned back in bed and put his arm above his head. “I’d love that. What time are you coming over? Right now?”

“No. Actually my mom has a date tonight, so how about you coming here? I’ll make it worth the trip.”

“Hmm, what time?”

“Oh, say six-ish, and don’t forget to bring a dessert.”

“So what are you doing for the rest of the day?” Maria could hear him moving around in the bed sheets.

“Are you still in bed?”

“Yes, I am.”

“It’s after twelve you know?”

“I know, but I didn’t want to get up. I was having the most intense dream imaginable. You, of course were the star. What talent.”

“Pig. Are you going to tell me?”

“Are you gonna come over and fix the problem I develop from telling you about my fantasies?”

“Later. I promise.” Maria smiled. She loved it when he whispered all the details of his fantasies to her. They were so very inspiring.

“Okay, then I’ll tell you later, honey.” Maria started laughing as he started to tell her anyway what he was dreaming about.

“Go back to your dreaming. I’ll see you tonight, baby.” Maria hung the phone chuckling before he got anymore graphic and demanding. Picking up her bath stuff she headed off to the shower. It was good to be alive some days. As she showered her thoughts turned to her friends, but only for a second.

A few hours later she opened the door to her Prince Charming holding a bouquet of roses just for her. Could he get any better? He had a gleam of mischief in his eyes and a beautiful smile on his face. Lifting his head he sniffed the air.

“Awe, honey, you cooked.” Laughingly Maria grabbed him dragging him into the house and into her arms. “I brought dessert.”

Maria looked around him and her eyebrow went up. “Really?”

***

Later that night she was woken from sleep by a sound. Getting up she check the hall outside her room, closing the door she locked the door. Moving to the window she looked out upon the darkened quiet streets of Roswell. Seeing nothing she shrugged and went back to bed. Climbing back into the comfortable warm bedding an arm came around her pulling her close.

“What’s wrong? Do I need to leave?”

“No. Not till morning. I heard a noise. Maybe it was my mom getting home or something.”

“Speaking of you mom, is the door…”

“Locked. Don’t worry you’re safe. I’ll protect you.”

Kissing her along her neck just below her ear he whispered in her ear. “My hero.” They both gave a quiet laugh and sunk deeper under the covers.

***

By Monday the Max, Love Gods Inc., were once more hot on the tail of two intrepid lovers who had lost their way. Today was time to pull the modernized version of bait and switch, except they weren’t switching, only baiting. Tess was staked out in the girl’s bathroom waiting for Maria to come in which was her custom every morning. The door opened and she heard the bag being dropped on the floor two stalls away. Making as little noise as possible she exited the bathroom giving Liz and Isabel a high sign. They quickly entered before Maria had a chance of exiting the stall.

“I don’t believe it Isabel.”

“I swear to you, Liz. I got it straight from the horses mouth, as it were.”

“Michael told you that he was in love with Maria, flat out, no hedging?”

“Plainly spoken and direct. I’ve never seen him like this. He’s so surly and introverted. Well actually more than usual, that is. Ever since he found out about Maria dating he’s been impossible to be around. He wants her back, needs her back, but he lacks the social skills to even know how to go about it. I feel so sorry for him.”

“What do you think we should do?”

“I think we should tell Maria. We should tell her the truth, that he says she’s the One for him.”

“I don’t know Isabel. I think that’s a bad idea. I mean Maria is dating this new guy, which none of us have met, but she seems really excited about him. I know she still loves Michael, but does that make him good for her? I mean he’s broken her heart so many times.”

“But…” Liz quickly interrupted Iz.

“No. I say we don’t say a word. If Michael can find the courage to approach her, then fine. Otherwise we should keep quiet.”

“Liz, Maria may want to know. Before she goes off and commits herself to another, she should know all the options.”

“I don’t think it’s going to work, Isabel. He’s broken her heart too many times. Her heart is cold as a stone to him and I think that she cannot love him. He’s at a fragile stage right now. I hate to see him trampled by Maria, though he does deserve a little discomfort.” Liz looked up in time to see the shocked face of Maria looking over the bathroom stall at her in horror. Liz could barely stop herself from laughing.

“Maybe you’re right. If he approaches her with his heart on his sleeve and she rebutted him, he may never take the chance again. I know he can be a jerk at times, but he’s still my brother.” Liz nodes her head at the same time that the bell rings.

“Bell. We’ve got to go or we’ll be late. Maybe we should ask Max his advice?” When they left the bathroom they met up with Tess. Giving her two thumbs up. They laughed on their way to class.

The girls left a very amazed Maria in the bathroom. After they were gone she quickly exited the stall and checked her hair and washed her hands. Looking in the mirror she saw the shocked look on her face. They thought she was the One? With a slight secret smile she was out the door rushing to her class before the tardy bell.

Max watched Michael for most of the day. Finally Michael took off for his favorite hang out where he could escape from the school officials in between classes. His free hour was during fifth period, so Max and Alex were lying in wait in a convenient location along the way for Michael to be able to hear them by accident. Max watched until Michael was ready to come around the corner before starting the conversation.

“This sounds too serious, Alex. Are you sure that Maria feels that way about him?”

“Man, I’m telling you that this summer was the pits. She was borderline suicidal and just short of slashing the old wrists. You got to help me decide what to do?”

“Maria loves Michael that much? I don’t think he realizes it. Maybe we should tell him?” Max, out of the corner of his eye saw Michael stop as he came around the corner and quickly step back out of view. Giving Alex a discrete high sign, they continued.”

“Are you crazy? Look at the way they fight and snipe at each other right now. If we told Michael that she’s in love with him then he would’ve more ammunition. He would know her weaknesses and her vulnerable spots, where to wound her the most.”

“Michael isn’t like that. He has a deep caring nature. He won’t trample on her heart like an invading army. Maybe if he knew how vulnerable she is too him, he’ll take it easier on her when they fight.”

“Look Max, I know that you’ve known Michael for a long time. I love the guy myself like a brother, but the man is arctic. Look at how her just dropped her without looking back to see if she was okay. He dropped her cold. That was vicious.”

“Well what should we do?” Max quickly looked at Michael’s head occasionally coming around the corner to look at them.

“Maria is starting to date this new guy and seems really happy with him. I think we should encourage her to see him even more and put Michael on a shelf labeled ‘what could’ve been’ and go on. He owns too much of her and has given so little back. She needs more, deserves more. This guy might just be more.”

“I don’t know Alex. Maybe we should tell Michael, give him a chance. Just because he treats her cold doesn’t mean that he doesn’t care about her. She has done more for him then anyone I’ve ever seen. He trusted her and went to her when there was no on else. I know he hides behind a wall of reserve, but he does care deeply for her. He loves her.”

“He doesn’t act like it. If he does, I pity him because another man has moved in and for all practical purposes looks to be ready to snap her up. He treats her nice, sends her flowers, and also gives her gifts.”

“So what’s the problem? We don’t tell Michael anything and left Maria go on with her life.”

“Except.”

“Except, what?”

“Look I just love Maria. I want her to be with the one she loves. Michael is the One for her; he’s it. I guess I just feel like we shouldn’t close that door on their relationship if it’s possible to bring them back together.”

“So we’re once again where we began. Do we tell him or don’t we?”

“Okay, look I’ll talk to Maria and see how things stand for her. See if she’s willing to talk to Michael or whether it’s a done deal. Then we’ll go from there.”

“Okay. I just don’t want her to getting so depressed again that she feels life isn’t worth living.”

“Agreed. Let’s go find her.” Max and Alex start to walk off. “Has she talked to you yet after the whole desert thing?”

“No. This should be interesting.”

Michael came around the corner and watched his two friends walking away with a speculating look on his face. Taking a hand and rubbing it across his face he knew what he needed right then, right now. Taking off back into the school he went to stalk his prey.

Maria was walking along the hall just before her sixth period. When suddenly, a hand came out of an opened door and pulled her into the janitor closet. Before she could even make a sound or comment things were already out of control.

A blur, and he was on her, hands fisted in her shirt, shoving her back against the door with surprising force. Like a lot of people, Maria tended to underestimate how strong he was. She couldn't get him off her, not if she wanted to. Not that she wanted to. It felt so good feeling his hands on her body and his mouth ravishing her mouth.

Maria started to ask him what the hell he was doing when he took advantage of her open mouth and shoved his tongue inside. He was standing tall and big over her, the entire length of his body pressed against hers, his mouth glued to Maria’s, and their tongues playing tag. Maria didn't think she’d ever been kissed so thoroughly before. Trying to suck air into her lungs they drew apart and looked darkly into each other’s eyes both trying hard to slow their breathing and the pounding of their hearts. The heavy passion was so thick that the very air seems permeated and substantial. Without a thought they attacked each other again with her hands tangled in his hair pulling the strands and his hands pulling her clothes open so he could touch her skin.

Outside in the hall the swiftness of action was not lost on five different people. They had been trailing Maria when suddenly she was pulled into the janitor’s closet. The group of them shared a congratulations smile among themselves. Their heads turned suddenly back to the now occupied room when the sound of something slamming into the door, a deep moan, and suddenly a frenzy of sound the most obvious being heavy breathing with moans. Looking quickly up and down the hall to make sure no teachers were about they tried to discretely leave the scene.

Suddenly the door to the closet opened violently and out raced Maria. She was in an obvious state of dishevelment trying to refasten her clothes as she fled down the hall. Following her out of the room was an equally tumbled looking Michael starting to take off after Maria, when suddenly he stopped, rubbed his hands over his face. Looking after her fleeing back, Michael went in another direction down the main stairway. The group was stunned into confusion.

“We’ll take Michael, you girls take Maria. Hurry.” Max said as Alex followed him.

Max and Alex flew down the main staircase after Michael. “Michael, wait.”

Michael turned to see both Alex and Max bearing down on him. He was in too much of a hurry to be forestalled by these two, but what was he to do?

“Now isn’t a good time, Maxwell.”

“Michael, are you okay? You have a flustered look and out of sorts.” Alex and Max shared startled looks when Michael snorted.

“This isn’t flustered. This is frustrated, and you know what? It’s getting worse with every passing moment. I need to leave before I explode. So if you’ll excuse me?” With a raised brow and a nod of his head Michael was down the steps and moving fast towards his bike.

“Maybe we shouldn’t let him drive in that condition?”

“Really Max? Are you going to offer him alternate methods for blowing off the steam? I suggest we let him take care of it himself. Though, after being up close and personal to ‘It’, I must say that guy is packing some major heat. I thought he was going to rip out his jeans. I’m almost jealous. If I was Maria, I would’ve ran too.”

“For god sake, shut up Alex.”

Liz, Isabel, and Tess rushed after Maria trying to catch her. They made it as she went out the side entrance of the school leading to the parking lot. “Maria, wait!”

Maria looked over to see the girls heading for her fast and with obvious intent. She didn’t know how much more she could take. Groaning deeply she turned to face them.

“Not now Liz, I need to leave.”

“Wait Maria, is everything okay?”

“No. Nothing is okay. I can’t talk now. I’ll see you later this evening during my shift. Bye.” And with that she was gone. They watched her take off in her car at breakneck speeds not with just a little concern.

“He really got to her.” Liz and Isabel turned to look at Tess with questions on their faces.

“What do you mean, he got to her?”

“Maria wasn’t wearing a bra.”

“So?”

“So, her nipples were so hard that you could see them through her shirt. I think we’re looking at sexual frustration.”

“If she’s so sexually frustrated then why did she leave? I’m sure that Michael was feeling the same way and would’ve more than accommodated her needs.” Isabel said. They all looked at each other when finally a solution presented itself.

“Oh no, the other guy. She feels committed to the new guy and now feels guilty for responding to Michael.” Liz looked at Tess and Isabel. “Poor Maria. Does she ever get a break?”

***

Maria could hardly keep herself in control enough to drive. This was too stupid for words. She was putting herself and others at risk. Luckily his apartment was near. Her insides were shaking so much she could hardly stand and get out of the car. Searching her bag for that shiny new key she made her way to his door. Please be there. Please be there. Opening the door with a shaking hand she entered the quiet apartment. He wasn’t home. Damn. Unable to decide what to do or even how to calm down she paced around his living room when suddenly she heard his key in the lock. He walked in stopping in the doorway when he saw her. Her state of arousal was something he understood and recognized immediately. He came the rest of the way in and rested against the closed door.

“Do you want to talk about this?”

"No. You said whatever I want. I want you, need you." She grabbed his hand and pulled him into the bedroom not stopping to shut the bedroom door or even to speak. He found himself on the bed with her totally in control.

"Maria," He ground out, arching his body up toward the touch. He was supposed to be the one making amends, pleasing Maria, healing her heart and strengthening their relationship. Instead, here he was, lying flat on his back, accepting all the pleasure that Maria offered, and damn near begging for more. "Please, just-" he caught her eyes with his own and gave the gentle command, "kiss me, let me…" and those luscious, heated lips were suddenly on his own, stealing away his very breath once again.

She grounded against his groin, groaning with pleasure at the pressure, even through two layers of denim. She could feel him, hot, solid, and large against her hip. Maria slid one hand between them, and wrapped it around the bulge, squeezing gently, and drawing a moan from the man while swallowing his tongue. It was going to be fast. It was going to be hard. It was going to be good.

***

They were all sitting in their usual booth when Maria walked in. She watched them looking over at her and then with a short discussion they sent Liz on the hunt. Maria looked at her watch to confirm what she already knew. She was late. If she had been smart like a certain person suggested, she would’ve called in sick and would still be lying in bed relaxing while being cuddled close.

“Liz, I can’t talk right now. I’m late here.”

“Maria, I need to talk to you. I’ve been trying to reach you since you left school. You weren’t home and you weren’t answering your phone. I was really worried.”

“I appreciate that Liz, but I’m fine. I actually feel great, just a little tired. So rest your concern and let me get to work.”

Liz’s eyes narrowed as she took in what Maria was saying and for the first time in a long time she took a hard long look at her best friend. Maria did look good. Actually she looked better than good, she looked gorgeous with an air of sensuality that hadn’t been there before. Liz spied a mark on Maria’s throat just covered by her shirt’s neckline, but still there. It looked very new and still red. Her lips were puffier and redder than usual showing signs of violent kissing. But it was when she met Maria’s eyes head on that she drew in her breath. Her eyes were clear and direct with an added maturity of someone that has taken the next step in life.

“Oh my god, you’re sleeping with him, this new guy? Maria? You’re sexually involved with him? You left school today totally turned on by Michael and went straight into the arms of this other guy.” Maria took Liz by the arm and dragged her over to the door leading into the break room.

“This is coming under the heading of none of your business, Liz. I’ll not talk about this with you right now because I’ve neither the time nor the inclination. Just know Liz that nothing is, as it seems. I’ve got to go.”

“Maria. Wait. Do you love him? Do you love this new guy?” Maria gives a self-mocking laugh.

“Love him? Of course I love him. He saved me, saved us both from a life of loneliness. Wherever he goes, I’ll go with him. Being away from his is like cutting out my own heart. I’d die for him, die to be with him, and kill to protect him. Yes, Liz, I love him. Tell your dad I had to go home because I’m not feeling well. I just realized that I left someone alone and sleeping and that’s where I want to be.”

Maria started to leave noticing a frozen Liz. “Nothing is as it seems, Liz. All the pieces are there. You just have to stop looking at life on the surface and start to look for what is deep and meaningful. I’ll talk to you later.” With that Maria left the CrashDown. Liz went back to join the others.

“Liz? What happened? What did she say?” Isabel asked concerned by Maria’s sudden departure.

“She’s in love with this new guy.”

“No way. I saw the way she responded to Michael today. I’m telling you she’s just confused.” Isabel looked desperately at the others for support.

“She’s not confused. She’s very resigned on one point. Maria is in love with him and she’s very much involved with him.”

Alex’s ears seemed to perk up, “by involved you would mean?”

“I mean that she’s sleeping with him, and has no intention of ever stopping. We’re talking about a commitment here. We’re talking about how out of the race Michael is.”

Isabel’s mouth opened in shock as awareness of what has happened hit her. “We set him up.”

“What? What are you talking about Iz?” Max asked with Alex also nodded his wanting to know.

“We set Michael up for a large fall. He was happily protecting himself from hurt behind his lonely wall. But we destroyed that by telling him that Maria only wants him, needs only him, is very near suicidal in her desire to be with him. He started pursuing her again today.”

“What will he do when he discovers that there’s no chance to get her back?” Tess voice was small, as she finally understood what Isabel was saying.

The group sat silently thinking about Michael’s reaction and the part they played in it. Either way you looked at it, it was going to be very hard for him.

“Someone better tell him before he starts stalking Maria and gets an eyeful of why he stands no chance.” Alex said as they all looked at Max.

“Me? Why me?”

“You’re the leader, so lead.” The rest agreed with Alex. It should be Max.

***

Michael swore as he stubbed his toe on the way to the door. Hitting a small light in the kitchen he noticed the time. Who could be knocking on his door at almost two in the morning? Opening up the door with a scowl on his face he was surprised to see Max standing there looking uncomfortable.

“Max? You do know that it’s two in the morning?”

“Sorry about waking you Michael, but there’s something I need to talk to you about and it couldn’t wait until morning.”

”Sounds real serious.” Michael moved to the side to let Max in. As they moved into the dark living room, Michael turned to look expectantly at Max with his brow raised.

“It’s Maria.”

“Max, I’m not gonna talk about Maria with you or anyone.” Michael sighed deeply. This was getting tedious.

“She’s dating a new guy?”

“Excuse me? What did you say?” Michael was shocked that Max or anyone would actually come out and tell him that.

“She’s not just seeing someone new, Michael. They’re very, very close. Intimate, if you know what I mean.”

“You’re trying to tell me that she’s sleeping with this new guy?”

“Yes. I know that you were with her in the janitor’s closet today. I just wanted to forewarn you that she’s involved. That getting her back may not be an option this time.”

“I see.” Michael went very quiet as if trying to ponder his options.

“Michael, are you okay? I just didn’t want you to be set up for a fall. It’s just that…”

“I appreciate you coming here to tell me this. It must have been hard. I really can’t talk to you about this right now, Max. But later, we’ll have a long discussion. I promise.” Michael led a much-relieved Max to his door. “Don’t worry about me, okay. I’ve finally learned that things sometimes happen a certain way for a reason, that the real answers are rarely on the surface. Nothing’s what it seems, Maxwell.”

After shutting the door behind Max, Michael reached over and turned off the small light in the kitchen. Standing there’s the dark just looking at the closed door; he had to admire how hard that was for Max to bring him this news.

Slim arms wrapped around his waist and she rested her head against his bare back. Kissing his shoulder blade and rubbing her cheek against him, he closed his eyes soaking in the feel. Reaching behind him he found her hips and pulled her even firmer into his back.

“Is Max all right?” Turning around Michael gathered Maria into his arm kissing her forehead and resting his head in the nook between her neck and shoulder.

“Yes. He just came to tell me that he knows that you’re sleeping with this new guy in your life.”

”Oh, that. I guess Liz spilt the beans.”

“When do you think we should stop hiding this from them, and go public?”

“Confess? Not yet. Please? It’s just….”

“Just what?” Michael leaned in to kiss that special spot on her neck that drove her crazy which now sported his mark. They had almost made a mistake this afternoon. When this affair started they agreed to stop letting it occur in public and were trying to make their relationship more private. His pulling her into the closet at school was a very bad thing, because thing escalated too fast. They barely made it out of school in time before they blew the whole thing.

“Last time or even the last two times we got together the world was watching. They were watching our problems, our fights, even our make out sessions. I just want there to be a part of us that can be private. Not forever, but just long enough for us to get some even footing. This whole physical thing is so new and so intense. I don’t want to have to give it up, temper it for the straights.”

“I think I understand. You want to build the house before you invite the guest?”

“Something like that.” She pulled him to her and licked his bottom lip until he opened his mouth allowing her to deepen the kiss. “I love you,” she whispered breathlessly.

“Do you really love this new Michael more than the old?” Michael was worried. He was working hard to stay open, more communicative with her, to let her see him inside and out, but a lifetime of silence and reserve was hard to overcome. He needed her, and he would do anything to keep her with him.

Maria looked deep into his eyes and chuckled. God he was so beautiful. Taking his head between her hands she gently kissed his lips.

“The Michael you’re today, the one I’ve got in my arms is the only Michael I’ve ever seen. The only one I’ve ever loved. The difference was that before he was buried, but now he’s more on the surface, easier to see.”

“Thank you.” He buried his head in her neck smelling her skin resting against its warmth. They came so far, after months of him trying to convince her he was sincere. He couldn’t and wouldn’t risk losing her again.

“For what?”

“For seeing me, for always believing in me even when I gave you very little reasons to do so. It means everything to me.”

“Just love me, keep me.” She pulled his head away from her looking him in the eyes. “Can you do that Michael? Can you promise to always love me?”

“Always.” Easiest promise he ever made.

The End